Fruit Ninja studio Halfbrick hit with layoffs: 'we are navigating a challenging period for the games industry'
PC Gamer
by Shaun Prescott March 3, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Halfbrick Studios, the renowned Australian game developer behind iconic titles like *Fruit Ninja* and *Jetpack Joyride*, has announced layoffs as part of a broader restructuring effort. The company revealed on LinkedIn that it is adjusting its team structure, including role redundancies in Australia and ending international contracts. This move comes just months after the release of their new Bluey game, *Bluey's Quest for the Gold Pen*. The studio emphasized that these changes were not made lightly and are driven by organizational and strategic priorities amid a challenging period for the gaming industry.
Founded in 2001, Halfbrick initially focused on handheld games but later shifted its focus to mobile platforms, where it achieved significant success. Its most notable titles include *Fruit Ninja* and its sequels, which have sold over one billion copies worldwide since their 2010 release. The studio has also expanded into PC and console gaming, with popular releases like *Fruit Ninja VR* and *Fruit Ninja VR 2*. Despite these achievements, Halfbrick acknowledged that the current industry landscape required tough decisions to ensure long-term sustainability.
The company’s spokesperson highlighted that the layoffs were not based on individual performance but rather on broader structural adjustments. They also expressed appreciation for the departing employees, stating that they “exceptional talent” and encouraging other hiring teams to consider them for future opportunities. Halfbrick emphasized its commitment to handling the transition with care and respect, reflecting a focus on maintaining positive relationships even as the company navigates this challenging phase.
For readers interested in gaming, this news underscores the ongoing challenges faced by game developers in a rapidly evolving industry. Layoffs at prominent studios like Halfbrick can signal broader trends such as economic pressures, shifts in consumer preferences, or strategic pivots. While the gaming market remains
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Originally published on PC Gamer on 3/3/2026